These chocolate cinnamon rolls are a delicious twist on the classic cinnamon roll, combining the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon with rich cocoa for an indulgent treat. Topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting, these rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a special brunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These rolls offer a balance of flavors that chocolate lovers and cinnamon roll fans will both adore. The addition of cocoa powder to the dough and filling adds a rich, chocolatey depth that enhances the warmth of the cinnamon. The dough is soft and tender, while the filling melts into a gooey, sweet-spiced center. Topped with the tangy cream cheese frosting, these rolls become even more irresistible. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging in a comforting, homemade treat.
Perfect Occasion to Make This Recipe
These chocolate cinnamon rolls are ideal for weekend baking, holiday brunches, or whenever you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something special. They make a great addition to a breakfast or dessert spread, and their indulgent flavor and soft texture are sure to impress. These rolls can be prepared in advance and served warm, making them perfect for any special gathering or as a cozy weekend treat.
Decoration Tips
Once the rolls are baked and frosted, you can add a little flair by drizzling melted chocolate over the top for an extra indulgent touch. For a festive look, sprinkle some crushed nuts like pecans or hazelnuts over the frosting. You can also dust the rolls lightly with cocoa powder or cinnamon for added flavor and visual appeal. For a holiday feel, you could even add a pinch of edible glitter to the frosting for a touch of sparkle.
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 7 g dry instant yeast (2 1/4 tsp)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 150 ml warm milk (2/3 cup)
- 400 g all-purpose flour (3 1/4 cups)
- 30 g sugar (2 1/2 tbsp)
- 15 g unsweetened cocoa powder (2 tbsp)
- 1 large egg
- 50 g softened butter (3 1/2 tbsp)
For the filling:
- 80 g softened butter (1/3 cup)
- 50 g brown sugar (1/4 cup)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
For the cream cheese frosting:
- 150 g cream cheese, softened (5.3 oz or 2/3 cup)
- 50 g granulated sugar (1/4 cup)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the warm milk (around 37°C), 1 tsp of sugar, and the dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and 30 g of sugar. Add the activated yeast mixture, egg, and softened butter. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Prepare the filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cocoa powder until smooth and well combined.
- Shape the rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll the dough out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 30×40 cm). Spread the filling evenly over the dough.
- Form the rolls: Roll the dough tightly from one long side to the other to form a log. Place the log in the freezer for 15 minutes to make it easier to cut.
- Slice the rolls: Using a piece of food-safe string or dental floss, slice the dough into 12 equal rolls. Place the rolls in a greased baking dish, leaving some space between them for rising. Cover and let them rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Bake the rolls: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the rolls for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Frost and serve: Once the rolls are baked, spread the cream cheese frosting over the warm rolls. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Enjoy! These chocolate cinnamon rolls are best served warm and are the perfect indulgence for any occasion.
